As one of the most popular cosmetic dental solutions, veneers are discussed often and at length between friends and on the internet. There are a number of popular misconceptions about the process and outcome of getting veneers that should be corrected. It is important that patients are fully informed with the most accurate information before deciding to undertake a dental procedure. In this blog, we will identify and discuss some commonly held beliefs about veneers, and determine if they are accurate or not.Â
Myth #1: Veneers look fake
Many people hold the belief that veneers look obviously fake and will be embarrassingly obvious. It is common to think that veneers look big, white, too straight and entirely unrealistic, much like something you may see in a film or Hollywood production. There are a number of reasons people may believe this. Firstly, they may be thinking of 90s style veneers, as applied by a substandard practitioner. In fact, veneers technology has improved in leaps and bounds over the last 20 years, and has now improved to the point where your veneers can be entirely customised to create the look you desire. The shade and shape of your veneers can be made to suit your specific face and any personal preference you may have. Additionally, many people may believe veneers look fake because they have seen veneers on people whose gums have receded, exposing the edges of the veneers. While this can happen if the veneers have been on for a long time (for example, 25 years) this is otherwise common only for poorly applied veneers. At Kew Dentistry, we apply the highest quality veneers with the utmost precision, while regular check ups ensure that any gum receding is noted and fixed. You can rest assured that your veneers will satisfy your aesthetic preferences while looking completely realistic.Â
Myth #2: Veneers require significant chafing and cause damage
Perhaps the most commonly held belief is that veneers require a significant amount of shaving, and are completely damaging to your actual teeth. While some shaving can be required to ensure a proper fit of the veneer, it is rare that a patient would have their majority of their teeth shaved down completely. Sometimes, it is possible that we can do a ‘prepless’ veneer procedure, if the patient has teeth that are already well shaped to receive the veneer. In all cases it is required that each tooth must have its surface ‘roughened’ to provide a surface for the veneer to adhere to. In the case of a ‘prepless’ procedure, this will be the only prep necessary and will cause only minimal damage.Â
Myth #3: Anyone can get veneers
Many people believe that they will be able to get veneers instantaneously. While veneers will be suitable as a long term solution for most people, if there is any existing gum disease or tooth decay, this will first need to be treated by our dental team. The heath of your teeth and gums is an essential precondition for any cosmetic procedure, as even the smallest treatment may aggravate or worsen an existing condition.